64. What values might lead a person to success upon release from prison?:

Discipline, honesty, diligence

65. How does a person ever become his values?:

By sticking to their values, and never faltering from their values under any circumstances.

66. How does a person strengthen his integrity?:

By continuously doing what is right while no one else is watching.

67. What immediate challenges will a prisoner confront the day his prison term expires?:

He will have to report to a parole officer. He will have to find work, housing, and transportation.

68. Housing:

$20,000

69. Household furnishings:

$10,000

70. Clothing:

$2,500

71. Transportation:

$10,000

72. Incidentals:

$5,000

73. How much in the way of financial resources should a prisoner expect to need in the way of financial resources to transition to society?:

I would say about $50,000

74. How will prospective landlords, employers, creditors, and others in society respond to an individual who discloses his criminal record(s) and history of imprisonment?:

Probably resentment.

Describe the job market in the sectors for which you would like to find employment::

75. What range of income does the market offer?:

I am not sure yet.

76. What level of education or experience do candidates for such employment typically have?:

I am not sure yet.

77. In what ways will a prison record influence possibilities for employment?:

Employers may not want to hire felons. I must be ready for this reality and continue to prepare.

78. Where is the general employment rate in your community?:

I am not sure.

79. How would you expect the general employment rate to compare with the unemployment rate for people with your background, considering prison record, educational record, and experience?:

I expect there to be a lot of people with my background unemployed.

80. How much time do you anticipate needing between your release date and securing the job you expect to land?:

6 months

81. If halfway house placement requires forfeiture of 25 percent of gross earnings, of your monthly take-home pay, how much do you anticipate you will keep during the time you’re in the halfway house?:

50%

82. What do statistics show that average households in America earn each year?:

I do not know

83. How so you anticipate your income will compare with that average one year after your release from prison?:

I believe I will be above average.

84. What emotions do we introduce when we obsess on issues beyond our ability to influence?:

Anxiety, fear, stress.

85. How can we overcome the despair that accompanies imprisonment?:

Believe in a higher power greater than yourself. Also by consistently preparing for the future you want.

Michael wrote about the numerous ways that his behavior could lead to the extension of his prison term or the aggravation of his prison conditions. No one wants to serve longer prison terms or serve sentences under harsher conditions. :

86. What types of behavior lead to such outcomes?:

Fighting, using drugs, gambling, making and drinking wine. Possessing contraband and violence.

87. How do harsher prison conditions influence an individual’s ability to prepare for success upon release?:

In harsher conditions a person cannot access the small, but important things, a prison can offer. These things include libraries and classrooms. Also one cannot stay in touch with their support system if his visits or phone calls are cancelled.

88. How does behavior that leads to harsher prison conditions influence the lives of those in our support network?:

It prevents them from being in contact with the prisoner. If the contact comes to visit the prisoner only to find that the prisoner is not allowed to visit then it is a waste of the visitors time.

89. Although the prison system offered ways to lengthen a prison term or aggravate the conditions under which a prisoner served his sentence, what objective mechanisms exist within the system for a prisoner to distinguish himself in a positive way?:

By avoiding prisoners who into illegal activities. By doing your own thing while staying in the confines of the prison rules.

90. How then does the system encourage individuals to work toward reconciling with society, prepare for law-abiding lives upon release, or earn freedom?:

The system does not do that as far as I can see. I do not think the system is concerned with these types of issues. I think they generally care about money.

91. Describe the goals you have set?:

To earn my AA degree and later earn my bachelors degree. Also completing this program. And then land a good career.

92. Describe how your goals relate to your professed values?:

These goals will help me to support my family.

93. How clearly can you gauge your level of success toward each goal you set?:

I am always taking steps towards these goals.

94. In what ways does one goal lead to the next?:

Completing goals inspires one to create and complete more goals. They work together. Also accomplishing goals can convince one that he can accomplish any goal, whereas before this person may not have been aware of this ability.

95. If you achieve all of your goals, how will they influence your prison adjustment?:

I will be discipline, educated, and in full control of my own life.

96. How will the goals you set influence your prospects for success upon release?:

If I work to educate and grow my support system now, I will be more likely to be hired by an employer. If I continue to learn more about myself, and become mentally stronger, I will never come back to prison.

64. What values might lead a person to success upon release from prison?:

I strongly believe a person success upon release from prison begin with discipline. Having the discipline to avoid any criminal activity, embraces an attitude of willingness to work hard to succeed legitimately. With the right attitude, faith, family, and finance are values that will provide a concrete foundation.

65. How does a person ever become his values?:

When a person makes the commitment to live by their values, everyday life decisions are made in accordance to those values. Living a value based life requires you to demonstrate conduct related to your values.

66. How does a person strengthen his integrity?:

A person integrity is strengthen through their ability to live accordingly to their values. Through actions, they must live by the words they speak, and through thoughts, they must believe in themselves, responding to any adversity from a position of strength.

67. What immediate challenges will a prisoner confront the day his prison term expires?:

The day a prisoner is release from prison, he will be confronted with the challenge of transitioning his life to complete independence. No longer will he be provided three meals a day, clothing, and shelter. His daily responsibilities will increase tremendously. He must seek housing, transportation, employment, and medical coverage immediately.

68. Housing:

To secure housing cost, a prisoner must accumulate enough saving to pay rent for, first month, last month, and a security deposit. With that in mine, an estimated move-in cost, will be $2500. I suggest a prison save an additional month rent $1000, in case of an emergency situation. Total amount for housing $3500.

69. Household furnishings:

Furnishing a household can become expensive for a prisoner. With that in mind, a prisoner must spend his money wisely for shopping for household items, such as living room and bedroom furniture, cooking and kitchen appliances, also electronics. I estimate a prisoner will spend $5,000 on household furnishings.

70. Clothing:

An individuals appearance plays an important role when seeking opportunities. Therefore, the prisoner must accumulate enough money for a business wardrobe, along with a social and athletic wardrobe. I estimate that an entire wardrobe cost around $5,000

71. Transportation:

Transportation cost for a new dependable vehicle ranges between $25,000-$30,000. Therefore, an individual will need a 10% down payment of $2,500 to $3,000. With a job and good credit, the bank will issue an afforable car note with $350-$400 a month. With that in mind, my estimate for transportation costs is $5,000. $3,000 down payment, $2,000 for five months car payments.

72. Incidentals:

With an estimated monthly spending cost of $3,000, an individual must keep $36,000 in his account. The monthly $3,000 covers bills and expenses. With financial stability in place, a prisoners transition into society is less stressful.

73. How much in the way of financial resources should a prisoner expect to need in the way of financial resources to transition to society?:

After spending years in prison, most individuals who are released from prison come home to a limited amount of financial resources. In order for an individual to have a successful transition into society he must have financial resources. Individuals will need $5-$10,000 cash to begin his quests towards creating financial opportunities that will allow an individual to utilize his skill set comfortably in a job environment.

74. How will prospective landlords, employers, creditors, and others in society respond to an individual who discloses his criminal record(s) and history of imprisonment?:

Perspective landlords, employers, creditors, and others in society will hesitate to offer opportunities to an individual who disclose his criminal record. However, we are living in a society with a large number of ex felons. Therefore, it’s possible to overcome the many prejudices that are shown by members of society.

Describe the job market in the sectors for which you would like to find employment::

75. What range of income does the market offer?:

With an understanding that the US job market is predicted to suffer for the next few years, I am preparing myself by developing a skill set for two different industries. Plan A and plan B, will consist of me being knowledgeable about the fitness training industry and diesel industry. Both industries are felony friendy, with opportunities to reach pay scales of $45-$65,000 a year. With a stable job in place I could then focus on executing a business plan, establishing residential care facilities.

76. What level of education or experience do candidates for such employment typically have?:

Candidates for employment in the fitness industry are certified through personal training companies that require them to know general information about fitness, nutrition, and anatomy. Candidates for employment in the trucking industry requires them to attend a trucking school, complete an eight week course, and pass the written and drivers test. I am studying to take both fitness and trucking tests upon my release.

77. In what ways will a prison record influence possibilities for employment?:

A prison record influences possibilities for employment negatively. Due to societies perception of convicted felons, there are many obstacles prisoners will face in regards to employment. Each prisoner is held accountable to prepare himself to overcome these obstacles through education and skilled development prisoners will increase their chances to land opportunities in the workforce.

78. Where is the general employment rate in your community?:

According to an article in the Oakland tribune, the unemployment rate in my East Bay community has improved. The unemployment rate is lower than the previous year which is a sign of progress for our economic future.

79. How would you expect the general employment rate to compare with the unemployment rate for people with your background, considering prison record, educational record, and experience?:

Regardless whether the unemployment rate is high or low, an individual with a criminal history will face challenges. In the industry that I plan on pursuing, my individual skillset will allow me to succeed during bad economic times.

80. How much time do you anticipate needing between your release date and securing the job you expect to land?:

Preparing for a successful career upon my release, is something I focused on when my imprisonment began. Therefore I plan on securing a job within 45 days of my release.

81. If halfway house placement requires forfeiture of 25 percent of gross earnings, of your monthly take-home pay, how much do you anticipate you will keep during the time you’re in the halfway house?:

I expect to be released to the halfway house, therefore I’m required to pay 25% of my gross earnings to the halfway house. I will budget the remainder of my monthly take home pay, using 25% for daily expenses and depositing 50% into a savings account.

82. What do statistics show that average households in America earn each year?:

The average household in America earns between $40,000 an $50,000 a year.

83. How so you anticipate your income will compare with that average one year after your release from prison?:

I anticipate my income to be in the same range of the average American household, with that in mind, combining my income with my wife’s income, we will exceed that yearly average.

84. What emotions do we introduce when we obsess on issues beyond our ability to influence?:

When we obsess on issues beyond our control, we begin to introduce the emotions that create stress, such as anxiety, discouragement, sadness, hopelessness, and anger. Those emotions only complicate the issue, therefore you must focus on things you have control of.

85. How can we overcome the despair that accompanies imprisonment?:

Strategically, I overcome the despair that accompanies imprisonment, by focusing my time on preparing for a successful release.

Michael wrote about the numerous ways that his behavior could lead to the extension of his prison term or the aggravation of his prison conditions. No one wants to serve longer prison terms or serve sentences under harsher conditions. :

86. What types of behavior lead to such outcomes?:

The behavior that leads to such outcomes usually stems from a prisoner’s involvement in contraband, violence or any disruption to the prison.

87. How do harsher prison conditions influence an individual’s ability to prepare for success upon release?:

Harsher prison conditions require you to put up with prison politics, race riots, and prison gangs. In such a tense environment, the ability to prepare for success upon release becomes much more difficult.

88. How does behavior that leads to harsher prison conditions influence the lives of those in our support network?:

Behavior that leads to harsher conditions influences the lives of those in our support network with disappointment. It’s a major letdown to our family and friends when a prisoner behaves recklessly and is transferred to a higher level institution. They become more worried, knowing that their loved one’s safety is jeopardized in harsher prison conditions.

89. Although the prison system offered ways to lengthen a prison term or aggravate the conditions under which a prisoner served his sentence, what objective mechanisms exist within the system for a prisoner to distinguish himself in a positive way?:

Regardless of how a prisoner is perceived by staff, he is responsible to make an individual effort towards towards personal growth and development. Although his accomplishments may not be recognized by the system, he will receive acknowledgement from members of society on his positive transformation.

90. How then does the system encourage individuals to work toward reconciling with society, prepare for law-abiding lives upon release, or earn freedom?:

An individual cannot depend on the system to encourage them to work towards reconciling with society. It is a prisoner’s responsibility to overcome the many challenges of prison and to prepare themselves for law abiding lives upon release.

91. Describe the goals you have set?:

As I complete my final years of incarceration, I have set several goals. I will continue to strengthen my spiritual faith by reading chapters from the Bible daily. I will work hard everyday towards obtaining knowledge in fitness, with a goal of completing the certified fitness training course before my release. I am continuing to study and learn about the trucking industry as I also have aspirations of starting a trucking company. I will continue to improve my public speaking with a goal to one day speak to kids in the community I once negatively impacted.

92. Describe how your goals relate to your professed values?:

My goals relate to my professed values in many ways. I must show discipline in order to reach my goals. I will use skillsets to execute my business plans. Integrity, fitness, marriage, and spirituality are values that I will apply to my daily life as I work towards accomplishing my goals.

93. How clearly can you gauge your level of success toward each goal you set?:

Through my everyday activities, such as exercising, researching the Bible, and studying material for future business plans, I have learned to gauge my success by evaluating my performance and knowledge daily. Everyday assessments allow me to work on areas that need improvement.

94. In what ways does one goal lead to the next?:

With a clear understanding of my goals and the impact they will have on my life, strategically I work towards combining each goal so they can work in tandem to prepare me for success upon release.

95. If you achieve all of your goals, how will they influence your prison adjustment?:

By achieving all of my goals, my goals will influence my prison adjustment with a direct impact on my character. It takes discipline, focus and determination to remain committed towards achieving goals. Each day I wake up in prison, my focus is on enhancing my opportunities for success, and not allowing the prison system to disrupt my momentum.

96. How will the goals you set influence your prospects for success upon release?:

As the goals I reach begin to work in tandem, I will apply them to prospective opportunities that will increase the chances for success upon my release.

64. What values might lead a person to success upon release from prison?:

Desire- to want it. Industriousness-willing to work for it, towards it. Discipline- to stay the course. Self-esteem- having the confidence in yourself.

65. How does a person ever become his values?:

By making the words into an action, which will happen everyday.

66. How does a person strengthen his integrity?:

I use to measure my love by my willingness to die for a person, such as the love of my friends and child, I would die for what I love, but I know now, its a love with out a responsibility. To say I would or will live for those I love, requires more of an effort, harder work and holds me accountable, but to live for her despite of everything, is to become stronger.

67. What immediate challenges will a prisoner confront the day his prison term expires?:

That they are now responsible to maintain themselves and everything has a cost. Food , shelter, everything. On top of that, you will have to have some income to get it to keep your head above water.

68. Housing:

$1,500

69. Household furnishings:

$1,500

70. Clothing:

$1,500

71. Transportation:

$2,000

72. Incidentals:

$3,000

73. How much in the way of financial resources should a prisoner expect to need in the way of financial resources to transition to society?:

That depends on what type of situation a person is returning to. Does he have supportive family, housing to go to after release? Things in place that will allow him time to get an income going. For a lot of us, people don’t think about the financial part of it. Most have wasted money and barley get it in, being that they were the main bread winners. They or we make it in here.

74. How will prospective landlords, employers, creditors, and others in society respond to an individual who discloses his criminal record(s) and history of imprisonment?:

It depends on how you present yourself and if they are will to give you a chance. I would rather have my mind focused on figuring out a way to generate an income for a service I provide and rely on what I am able to do.

Describe the job market in the sectors for which you would like to find employment::

75. What range of income does the market offer?:

for entry an entry level trucker, you will start at about 32- 45 thousand a yr driving.

76. What level of education or experience do candidates for such employment typically have?:

CDL, 6 months driving exp

77. In what ways will a prison record influence possibilities for employment?:

My prison record will always be the animal in the room. My job is to find a way to convey why my past is a benefit. What I am able to do and bring to the table.

78. Where is the general employment rate in your community?:

Average rate

79. How would you expect the general employment rate to compare with the unemployment rate for people with your background, considering prison record, educational record, and experience?:

one thing that makes me feel confident is, the shortage of truckers that the industry has and is facing.

80. How much time do you anticipate needing between your release date and securing the job you expect to land?:

By the time that I am released to sup- release, I should already be going or enrolled in school for my cdls. If I am able to and I will find out as I get closer to completing my time, I will do what I am able to while I am in here.

81. If halfway house placement requires forfeiture of 25 percent of gross earnings, of your monthly take-home pay, how much do you anticipate you will keep during the time you’re in the halfway house?:

That’s a hard hit and I plan to so somewhere like 4 months and in that time, I plan to say at least 2500. make it with in six months and that will be enough to help me off set the cost of paying for my school for cdls.

82. What do statistics show that average households in America earn each year?:

$41,000

83. How so you anticipate your income will compare with that average one year after your release from prison?:

one yr after release, I plan to be in the the 38 a yr range. My main goal with that yr will be able to save at the least 16000 for the yr.

84. What emotions do we introduce when we obsess on issues beyond our ability to influence?:

feeling powerless, rage, frustration which attacks your self-esteem causing you to become depressed.

85. How can we overcome the despair that accompanies imprisonment?:

Hold on to see where and how we wish to see ourselves after it is over and walk and work everyday towards that.

Michael wrote about the numerous ways that his behavior could lead to the extension of his prison term or the aggravation of his prison conditions. No one wants to serve longer prison terms or serve sentences under harsher conditions. :

86. What types of behavior lead to such outcomes?:

Trying to fit in, being accepted and allow yourself to be manipulated. Allowing yourself to make the same blind, or lacking in foresight decisions that got you here. Not paying attention to whats going on around you at all time.

87. How do harsher prison conditions influence an individual’s ability to prepare for success upon release?:

When you sit around and look at the life you are living in here, you have to tell your self that it is better then this, it gets better. To know that is to ask your self what is it that you can do to not return here, what is the the best position you can place yourself in to win.

88. How does behavior that leads to harsher prison conditions influence the lives of those in our support network?:

It makes it seems as if you still have not got “it”, as in you still take life to be a joke and have not learned anything.

89. Although the prison system offered ways to lengthen a prison term or aggravate the conditions under which a prisoner served his sentence, what objective mechanisms exist within the system for a prisoner to distinguish himself in a positive way?:

In the WAY that for every negative you see in here, how all is against you, there is a positive if you seek it out, if only the self confidence in yourself to maintain your sanity and overcome to better yourself in the process.

90. How then does the system encourage individuals to work toward reconciling with society, prepare for law-abiding lives upon release, or earn freedom?:

It doesn’t. I saw the president speak tonight and thought wow, some of what he said, concerning the training of people for special job markets, could become the new mission statement for Bop/

91. Describe the goals you have set?:

I have set the goal of writing 10 pgs a week on my manuscript, I am walking and jogging, to eventually build myself up to start working out. Continue to read and stay up to date on the trucking industry. Save money as it comes in and work with that sense of urgency

92. Describe how your goals relate to your professed values?:

the desire is there for me to better my life, I do that by being industrious working towards it and keeping the discipline to stick to it and it effects the way that I feel about myself.

93. How clearly can you gauge your level of success toward each goal you set?:

By keeping a chart to see and measure how far I have come and meeting my expectations.

94. In what ways does one goal lead to the next?:

AFTER one is met, you move on to another but you do it one at a time or in small steps so you will not get overwhelmed with how much you are not able to do.

95. If you achieve all of your goals, how will they influence your prison adjustment?:

they empower me, make me feel as if I am now a active participant in the drivers seat of my life, give me power over what I have influence over, my actions, my mind and me.

96. How will the goals you set influence your prospects for success upon release?:

it becomes a habit, thinking in for the long term, seeing your position and what’s to come and preparing for it. Learning how to make better decisions, learning what matters to you and what you value.

64. What values might lead a person to success upon release from prison?:

Godliness is very serious and should be a priority to everyone. I am blessed and i will be going towards my goal of owning my own business again, and then to hand it over to my son.

65. How does a person ever become his values?:

Through prayer and commitment to become a good person.

66. How does a person strengthen his integrity?:

Truthfull, deliberate, considerate living. It’s the foundation on which I stand and by which I expect from others.

67. What immediate challenges will a prisoner confront the day his prison term expires?:

Money, support, and a job.

68. Housing:

$800.00/month

69. Household furnishings:

$500.00

70. Clothing:

$1,000

71. Transportation:

$8,500

72. Incidentals:

$2,000

73. How much in the way of financial resources should a prisoner expect to need in the way of financial resources to transition to society?:

At least $5000.00 to get started.

74. How will prospective landlords, employers, creditors, and others in society respond to an individual who discloses his criminal record(s) and history of imprisonment?:

I want to be able to face my fears and each encounter with dignity and to show people you can succeed. I don’t want to be ashamed or hurt to deeply if I am turned down/away from a job or other obstacle.

Describe the job market in the sectors for which you would like to find employment::

75. What range of income does the market offer?:

It differs from $800.00 to $1000.00 a day.

76. What level of education or experience do candidates for such employment typically have?:

4 years of college or many years on the job training, day in and days or nights out.

77. In what ways will a prison record influence possibilities for employment?:

I’ve always have held a knack for engineering. I am good with numbers. I also realized that my invention and patent for a new oilfield product will be a good asset on my chances of employment.

78. Where is the general employment rate in your community?:

Right now, the rate is very high. And he furure is expected to be even bigger. I chose the right job in my younger days and with about 15 yrs. of drilling and completion rig experience, I should be able to fit right into a company easily.

79. How would you expect the general employment rate to compare with the unemployment rate for people with your background, considering prison record, educational record, and experience?:

I will be given the critical (stink) eye. But all I need is just one chance to prove myself. That should be enough, because people with my experience and skills are in high demand.

80. How much time do you anticipate needing between your release date and securing the job you expect to land?:

Within a month and no later.

81. If halfway house placement requires forfeiture of 25 percent of gross earnings, of your monthly take-home pay, how much do you anticipate you will keep during the time you’re in the halfway house?:

At least 50%.

82. What do statistics show that average households in America earn each year?:

Around $18000.00 to $23000.00 /yr??

83. How so you anticipate your income will compare with that average one year after your release from prison?:

I should be able to double that and way more.

84. What emotions do we introduce when we obsess on issues beyond our ability to influence?:

If we introduce such thoughts we are overcome by reality. Failure and no hope are some of the worst ones.

85. How can we overcome the despair that accompanies imprisonment?:

We have to stay busy. Study, classes, hobbies, exercise etc. And have Hope. Set a goal to achieve.

Michael wrote about the numerous ways that his behavior could lead to the extension of his prison term or the aggravation of his prison conditions. No one wants to serve longer prison terms or serve sentences under harsher conditions. :

86. What types of behavior lead to such outcomes?:

Care-free, not respecting others. drinking and not following orders or instruction.

87. How do harsher prison conditions influence an individual’s ability to prepare for success upon release?:

You respect your freedoms and will cherish them even more. I can’t wait to be able to work again in my field of expertise.

88. How does behavior that leads to harsher prison conditions influence the lives of those in our support network?:

They live it with you every day.

89. Although the prison system offered ways to lengthen a prison term or aggravate the conditions under which a prisoner served his sentence, what objective mechanisms exist within the system for a prisoner to distinguish himself in a positive way?:

Some places such as here offer better ways to become a unique individual.

90. How then does the system encourage individuals to work toward reconciling with society, prepare for law-abiding lives upon release, or earn freedom?:

They try to do this with prisoners teaching other prisoners. It goes good for a while . One scenario that I don’t like they will start a great program that will take a great amount of your time for a certificate say, 500 to 1000 hrs. then at the last minute they just abandon the program!! That is a great deterrent for most people. And most prisoners are wary of that happening again to them. And the cycle starts over again. NOTHING GETS DONE!!

91. Describe the goals you have set?:

1) To learn mathematics even better,( algebra, geometry, etc.). My future job depends on it. I’ve got the books I need sent in to me. I study each day. (2) my physical condition thru exercise. (3) To do everything at my best ability and quality. (4) to learn that to believe in the people and their ideas. (5) To evaluate everything. (6) to not take anything for granted. (7) To treat everyone as I want to be treated. (8) To get the job that I want by preparing now.

92. Describe how your goals relate to your professed values?:

I am a successful inventor and I am very fortunate to have an adequate education. I believe that education is a fundamental step in the direction of success. Another is to be able to communicate with others thru foreign languages, Spanish, French etc. I value family. Being without it for so long, has made it’s mark on me. I value it even more.

93. How clearly can you gauge your level of success toward each goal you set?:

I would honestly say, my goal of getting a patent has been accomplished. It has taken a long time and all of my money that I’ve made for over 7 years. Now, to get it to market is the next step.

94. In what ways does one goal lead to the next?:

One gets done and the others just move up into place. I’m like Michael, I’ve been in prison since 1990 and this is for sure my last time and I want to make sure of it! I’m going to be almost 60 when I’m out this time, and I don’t want to waste another minute of my life behind bars isolated from society and my family.

95. If you achieve all of your goals, how will they influence your prison adjustment?:

I will be able to say one day that prison saved my life. And I didn’t even know it.

96. How will the goals you set influence your prospects for success upon release?:

With a successful patent in the oil field/gas field industry, I will be able to get recognition as to my abilities and land the job I want. Then to reunite with my son and daughter who have suffered so much with out me for so long. You see, this patent and it’s value to society (this is written before the BP trial with the government starts in New Orleans), and the environment is pronominal (huge, BIG). I want to be able to leave this earth in better shape that I have had it. !! After this trial , I am praying that they will make it mandatory to have these retrievable blowout preventers, that I have patented, in certain if not all subterranean gas/oil wells world wide. I’ve overcome a lot so far, and there will be more to overcome on this important subject.

Staying physically fit will make me able to be active with my grandchildren and to live a longer life. By learning math and algebra better I will be able to figure problems even without the comfort of electricity. Being trained in Auto CAD drafting, I am able to draw and manufacture on the computer almost anything I put my mind to and to see it work on screen. That’s a huge advantage over most people. I put in the time for all of these programs for a reason. I know they will help me upon my release into the community.

64. What values might lead a person to success upon release from prison?:

Keeping a positive image and striving for what is best in life the right way!

65. How does a person ever become his values?:

Staying focused and doing it, not just talking about it.

66. How does a person strengthen his integrity?:

Have faith, believe in what you are doing, and doing the right thing when it can be hard.

67. What immediate challenges will a prisoner confront the day his prison term expires?:

Work, being around old friends who are still doing the same negative things.

68. Housing:

$3,000

69. Household furnishings:

$2,000

70. Clothing:

$2,000

71. Transportation:

$2,000

72. Incidentals:

$1,000

73. How much in the way of financial resources should a prisoner expect to need in the way of financial resources to transition to society?:

The way it is now a decent apartment might be around $800 a month, plus utilities. A car is a must. I will need at least a few thousand to start.

74. How will prospective landlords, employers, creditors, and others in society respond to an individual who discloses his criminal record(s) and history of imprisonment?:

At first they will follow the stereotype, but when I show them the steps I took they will feel different.

Describe the job market in the sectors for which you would like to find employment::

75. What range of income does the market offer?:

A warehouse may offer minimum wage, but if you have forklift experience you can make more. Computer skills also help.

76. What level of education or experience do candidates for such employment typically have?:

I have two associate degrees, and I am always told I am qualified. Now a days even a high school diploma is acceptable for a good job. Hard honest work matters most.

77. In what ways will a prison record influence possibilities for employment?:

Like I said earlier there will be stereotypes but if I can show my path and how capable I am I think I will be in good shape. I can direct employers to this profile so they I was always working.

78. Where is the general employment rate in your community?:

High, and higher for felons.

79. How would you expect the general employment rate to compare with the unemployment rate for people with your background, considering prison record, educational record, and experience?:

It is higher with a felony. I know it will be rough when I come home. But I must be ready and prove why I am worthy of a chance.

80. How much time do you anticipate needing between your release date and securing the job you expect to land?:

I am researching now and when I get in the halfway house I will be on a mission to get a job, and show employers why I am ready. I will not be wasting anytime. I am also working on proposals for various office businesses.

81. If halfway house placement requires forfeiture of 25 percent of gross earnings, of your monthly take-home pay, how much do you anticipate you will keep during the time you’re in the halfway house?:

I’ve been through this before. The balance will go for bills and to help me go to home confinement.

82. What do statistics show that average households in America earn each year?:

About $0,000

83. How so you anticipate your income will compare with that average one year after your release from prison?:

It may be a struggle, but I will life within my means.

84. What emotions do we introduce when we obsess on issues beyond our ability to influence?:

Sometimes I get emotional when I get to the point that I cannot take care of the things that need to be done. I usually try to slow myself when this occurs. I pray, work, and keep striving to complete my mission. I overcome.

85. How can we overcome the despair that accompanies imprisonment?:

Stay focused, prepare, work on different skill sets, all in a mission to do what others say is impossible.

Michael wrote about the numerous ways that his behavior could lead to the extension of his prison term or the aggravation of his prison conditions. No one wants to serve longer prison terms or serve sentences under harsher conditions. :

86. What types of behavior lead to such outcomes?:

If a person in prison has a weak mind they will give into the negative influences. They are the people to stay away from but some do not know that or find out too late. Only hang around people who are positive and want to do good. Otherwise you get transferred, get a longer sentence, all of it.

87. How do harsher prison conditions influence an individual’s ability to prepare for success upon release?:

First with more trouble you get treated like an inmate not a man. And you cannot focus if you are in shu or getting transferred.

88. How does behavior that leads to harsher prison conditions influence the lives of those in our support network?:

It is hard on our loves ones already, but when we make it worse it is harder on them. I want to prove that I deserve their trust and if I make it harder then I am not being honest. I need them.

89. Although the prison system offered ways to lengthen a prison term or aggravate the conditions under which a prisoner served his sentence, what objective mechanisms exist within the system for a prisoner to distinguish himself in a positive way?:

Some prisons have vocational programs that allow us to obtain skills for the real world. You must have a strong outlook and work hard. it can be tough in here. I must stay focused and be around positive people. A lot of it is up to me. No matter what programs exist I must prepare.

90. How then does the system encourage individuals to work toward reconciling with society, prepare for law-abiding lives upon release, or earn freedom?:

The system does not. I do not see it. They encourage failure. Either way I must stand ready and we must be prepared as a man, to honor the kids, or wife, or girlfriend or parents who stuck by us. We owe it to them. There are some good guards who will encourage you but not many. Many are miserable and just work there.

91. Describe the goals you have set?:

I want to finish this program and get my third aa degree. i want to use this program to help me get a job. Justin mentioned we could begin sending it to potential employers which is great. They can see how hard I work in here. I also want to stay in shape, and stay close to those that support me.

92. Describe how your goals relate to your professed values?:

They relate. What I say I do. I work out, study, stay close. I am in line!

93. How clearly can you gauge your level of success toward each goal you set?:

Well, these were some of the things I was already doing. While in here I have been researching for a better path, ensuring I reach all of my goals. By writing them out I know if I am on track.

94. In what ways does one goal lead to the next?:

You reach it, appreciate it, then move on to the next ,never forgetting where you were or how hard you worked to get there!

95. If you achieve all of your goals, how will they influence your prison adjustment?:

They will make my adjustment comfortable. All I have to do is keep working hard, staying positive, and have real goals.

96. How will the goals you set influence your prospects for success upon release?:

I must keep my mind focused in here. I must have a successful future. I am motivated, balanced, determined, and ready.

By striving to stay focused and that what it is you want to do and be will pay off through hard work, discipline and persistence. being true to the values that they have set forth, knowing that they are the most important thing in being the best and doing the best person you can be. If you have go strong values you can go as fear as you want to.

66. How does a person strengthen his integrity?:

By not being afraid of what they do. staying true to themselves and believing in what they do. know and believe that their morals and what they value are genuine and good. striving to better themselves in all areas that they want to prosper in.

67. What immediate challenges will a prisoner confront the day his prison term expires?:

Employment, housing , significant other, financial as well as adjusting to the changes that have occurred in the free world during their imprisonment.

68. Housing:

$5K

69. Household furnishings:

$2K

70. Clothing:

$1K

71. Transportation:

$2K

72. Incidentals:

$2K

73. How much in the way of financial resources should a prisoner expect to need in the way of financial resources to transition to society?:

10-11k at least and that’s for someone who knows about having nothing and having to make do with what they have. After working for $10-$15 a month and getting a little support from one family member some like myself could manage really well. But there are those who still have $ from before their arrest as well as have people that has and still do support them but all in all its up to the person and what debts, obstacles, and plans the person has.

74. How will prospective landlords, employers, creditors, and others in society respond to an individual who discloses his criminal record(s) and history of imprisonment?:

Some will be optimistic depending on what area you are in because society is being awaken to the reality of the in justices in the justice systems. There are also a lot of people that have been in the same shoes as those of us are currently in and they have made it are more than willing to an excon a chance depending on the persons attitude. But a majority of them will, look down on an ex-con and not want to give the time of day deeming them as not human and still trying to punish them for the crime they committed, which they have just served unjust excessive time for. They may not want to give them a fair chance at trying to prove that they can be a productive member in society and want to try and atone for the crimes and damage they committed in the past.

Describe the job market in the sectors for which you would like to find employment::

75. What range of income does the market offer?:

I will need to do some research. Also i still have a way to go before my release so I’m pretty sure things will have changed by the time I get out.

76. What level of education or experience do candidates for such employment typically have?:

I would think that you would need an aa in psychology or sociology, but from my experience and from the people that i have talked to the best person that can help someone in the field that i want to go into is someone that has experienced what that person is dealing with first hand. In being that the person has been through what you are dealing with you know that they can truly relate that’s where the counselor, or consultant and the client have common ground which give them a better basis on something to build on.

77. In what ways will a prison record influence possibilities for employment?:

It depends on the employer and where you are seeking employment They have incentives nor for employers to hire felons also the employers are able to get bonded in case something does go wrong. But in my experience as an employer if you give someone a chance to prove their worth, most of the time it be payoff for you being you can pretty much get a feel for the person who wants the job when they come in to fill out the application and if you give them an interview. you will be able to tell in the first month or two whether the person is serious or nor by their work habits . If the person you hire is trying to better themselves and truly value freedom they will be willing to show up early and leave late. I have been overwhelmed lately with coursework and new classes. I am currenly in a reltionships and marriage workshop, along with being able to get into taft community college and taking business math & principles of healthful living.On the 21st and 26th I will be taking finals for the ministry classes.

78. Where is the general employment rate in your community?:

I am not sure, but I am sure it is higher if you have a record.

79. How would you expect the general employment rate to compare with the unemployment rate for people with your background, considering prison record, educational record, and experience?:

I think I will be able to get a job because of my skills and even though I have a conviction. I am working all day. I believe others will take notice.

80. How much time do you anticipate needing between your release date and securing the job you expect to land?:

Hopefully no time at all. I hope to have a job before I am released because I will be writing employers and asking them to follow my profile, and grant me an interview.

81. If halfway house placement requires forfeiture of 25 percent of gross earnings, of your monthly take-home pay, how much do you anticipate you will keep during the time you’re in the halfway house?:

I am not sure. I will be a good saver.

82. What do statistics show that average households in America earn each year?:

I must do more research on that question.

83. How so you anticipate your income will compare with that average one year after your release from prison?:

I think i will be at the average or well above the average ,due to the fact that my wife and I will be working as a team striving hard to make a positive mark in society as a team putting all the ambition an drive into our business venture as we did into our illegal activities that led to our incarceration.

84. What emotions do we introduce when we obsess on issues beyond our ability to influence?:

Stress and worry.

85. How can we overcome the despair that accompanies imprisonment?:

Strive not to be institutionalized. Believe that there is life after imprisonment. Better yourself in all areas of your life. Don’t let anyone discourage you and try to tell you that you cant accomplish things that you want to do or be because of your incarceration. Continue to strive for the betterment of yourself and those that seek a new way of living and a better way of life just as i do.

Michael wrote about the numerous ways that his behavior could lead to the extension of his prison term or the aggravation of his prison conditions. No one wants to serve longer prison terms or serve sentences under harsher conditions. :

86. What types of behavior lead to such outcomes?:

Disrespect, bullying, tough guy, someone that is defiant or has become institutionalized.

87. How do harsher prison conditions influence an individual’s ability to prepare for success upon release?:

The harsher the prison the more tension there is which means that everyone is going to be on edge. It also puts a negative vibe in the air and makes one want to give up and stray away from positive things to better themselves if there are any available. When there is a negative aura the staff is more likely to be inconsiderate and less understanding of the issues that one might be going through that is imprisoned.

88. How does behavior that leads to harsher prison conditions influence the lives of those in our support network?:

Our family members have to worry about our safety and state of mind in such a negative enviroment. That puts extra stress and strain on on the relationship that a prisoner has with his family and also with the relationship that the prisoner may have built with any one other than his family that is supportive and there for them. It may also give the impression that the prisoner is not striving to better themselves and possibly have lost focused.

89. Although the prison system offered ways to lengthen a prison term or aggravate the conditions under which a prisoner served his sentence, what objective mechanisms exist within the system for a prisoner to distinguish himself in a positive way?:

Here at this camp there is an outreach program called t.o.a.d. That i am involved in other than that i haven’t heard of anything that is put into place anywhere else.

90. How then does the system encourage individuals to work toward reconciling with society, prepare for law-abiding lives upon release, or earn freedom?:

It is hard to say because there are some institutions that have some alright apprenticeship programs available but those are becoming far and few, then it depends on where the region sends you as to if you will even be able to finish the hours that you need to complete to become a journeymen. But to some of the staff its job security and they would rather see you fail than to succeed.

91. Describe the goals you have set?:

Since i had written this answer a while ago i have reached a few of my goals such as: completing herbology and financial planning, and being enrolled in taft community college for two courses. I have even gotten enrolled into the ministry course that they have available here, so i have met the goals that I have set for myself and have set a new set that i am currently working on.( I have set a goal for the beginning of the year that i will complete the ?’s in my straight a guide book by the end of march and have my portfolio complete. That will not be an easy goal do to the fact that i am taking the two college courses that i spoke of earlier and the ministry that is two semesters of work in one. But its something that i am determined to accomplish and will accomplish through hard work, determination and sacrifice.)?

92. Describe how your goals relate to your professed values?:

My values and goals are one in the same. My goals are part of my life mission statement, so I’m striving to learn all that i can and am involved in to help others by using the info. I obtain & practice in my life to show that what I’m trying to offer to people does work and im living proof.

93. How clearly can you gauge your level of success toward each goal you set?:

By writing them down and taking note of my progress. It helps when I write them out then word towards them.

94. In what ways does one goal lead to the next?:

They get me closer to living the life I want. When I complete one I am ready to take on more. One at a time.

95. If you achieve all of your goals, how will they influence your prison adjustment?:

It means I would not be wasting my time. That even though i am in prison I am learning and preparing to go home. If I can achieve my goals here I can do it anywhere!

96. How will the goals you set influence your prospects for success upon release?:

Being that the goals I have set are all for preparation of my release, I know it won’t be easy so by working hard in here, it will only build more morale, strengthens my character, for a positive attitude, which is important for someone that plans on helping those who struggle in all different areas of their lives.